Jason Virgo's Activism Under Scrutiny
Lyle Shelton, Family First National Director, has raised significant concerns about One Nation’s commitment to foundational pro-family values, following the elevation of South Australian MP Jason Virgo. Questions about One Nation’s stance on key cultural issues have arisen due to Mr. Virgo’s past public advocacy, which includes support for same-sex marriage. Shelton insists that voters require clarity regarding One Nation’s position on traditional marriage definitions and the party’s alignment with Mr. Virgo’s views, especially his associations with groups advocating for gender fluid indoctrination of children.n
Family First welcomes One Nation’s disruption of a political class that has failed and betrayed Australian families. Lyle Shelton noted, “The surge in support for Pauline Hanson’s One Nation is a clear message to the Liberals and Nationals, who deserve the electoral kicking they’ve received.” Despite this, clarity is needed on whether One Nation supports traditional marriage and endorses Mr. Virgo’s alignment with groups promoting gender fluid ideologies.n
Historical support for One Nation from social conservatives and Christians is now in question. Mr. Shelton wonders if this support will continue if the party seems ambivalent about marriage, family, and children’s gender issues. Cory Bernardi, a One Nation figure, played a prominent role in defending traditional marriage during the 2017 national debate, which Mr. Virgo’s activism seems to contradict.n
Public Response and Next Stepsn
Shelton’s comments have highlighted internal tensions within One Nation regarding its stance on social issues. As of now, One Nation has not released an official response. This has sparked public debate on whether One Nation is maintaining its traditional family values or experiencing an ideological shift.n
Family First continues to align with many of One Nation’s policy positions, particularly on restoring affordable energy and reducing mass immigration. However, Shelton stated, “Virtue matters. The definition of family, the protection of children, and the dignity of women and girls are not secondary issues; they are central.” He reaffirmed that Family First will always stand unapologetically for family, faith, freedom, and life.n
As further developments unfold, Family First intends to closely monitor One Nation’s policy directions. They remain committed to defending the dignity of every human life, protecting children from harmful ideology, and upholding the rights of women and girls. Political realignment in Australia continues, and Shelton believes Family First remains the only viable minor party on the eastern seaboard that advocates for these core values.
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 7:51 pm
